John,
The thermostat housings always rust out in the neck. Most seem to rust
faster on the outside, under the rubber, than from the inside. They are
formed sheet steel, not a casting. I do not know what may interchange, but
possibly a 53 to 55 Dodge hemi/poly may have been cast. I found a much
better one for my 56 engine in a salvage yard, because it had been
disconnected and stopped rusting decades ago. It would be a good idea to
paint it with POR 15 to prevent future rust, inside and out.
For summer operation, I would recommend a 160 thermostat. Get one with a
high coolant flow rate, like Robert Shaw. If you have overheating problems,
back flush the radiator and use a 56 (other years may also be the same)
DeSoto or Chrysler fan blade with 6 blades, instead of the standard Dodge 4
blades.
Dave Homstad
56 Dodge D500
-----Original Message-----
From: Forward Look Mopar Discussion List
[mailto:[email protected]]On Behalf Of [email protected]
Sent: Monday, July 09, 2001 10:01 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [FWDLK] Thermostat Housing
Hi All,
I'm in the process of servicing the cooling system on my 56 Dodge. Tonight I
removed the thermostat housing and found rust holes in the neck where the
coolant hose was attached. I would like to get a new one. I have a 270 V-8.
Is this a common item on poly V-8's? Would NAPA have them?
Also, any recomendations on what temp thermostat is best for N.J. summers.
Thanks,
John M
1956 Dodge Serra Wagon
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